Gates gives $20M for digital learning, Common Core curriculum

Embedded assessments are a way of testing a student’s knowledge in real time through programs such as online math courses that help students self-pace their learning, game-based learning environments, and literacy instruction delivered through mobile phones. While learning in a digital environment that uses embedded assessments, students demonstrate mastery of a subject to progress to the next level of a game, course, or application.

Next Generation Learning Challenges is a grant competition aimed at identifying and expanding promising technologies that can help improve education in K-12 schools and colleges. It is led by the higher-ed technology association EDUCAUSE with support from the Gates Foundation and the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.

“Technology has advanced how we do so many things today,” said Phillips. “Yet, instead of transforming our schools, technology has generally been placed on top of antiquated models. These new cutting-edge applications have the potential to inspire students and engage them in the way they naturally learn, while giving teachers the flexibility to be creative in their craft and customize tools to their students’ needs.”